Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Italy with this Zesty Italian Lemon Pecorino Chicken dish. This recipe combines tender, golden-crusted chicken with a creamy, tangy lemon sauce that’s enriched with the savory goodness of Pecorino Romano cheese. The result is a dish that’s bursting with bright citrus notes, complemented by the rich, nutty flavor of the cheese, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe will bring a touch of Italy to your table.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 8 (2-ounce) chicken tenderloins
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Zest from 1 lemon
• ¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• For the Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ¼ cup milk
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese.
3. Coat each chicken tenderloin in flour, then dip in the eggs, and finally press into the panko mixture.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Cook the chicken tenderloins in the skillet until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and add flour and minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute.
8. Gradually whisk in milk, heavy cream, and chicken broth, simmering for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
9. Stir in lemon juice and butter, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Remove the chicken from the oven and pour the creamy lemon sauce over it.
11. Garnish with additional lemon zest and Pecorino Romano cheese if desired, and serve hot with a side of pasta, vegetables, or salad.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip:
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce as it simmers. The acidity of the wine will enhance the lemony notes, creating a more complex and sophisticated sauce. You can also add a handful of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a burst of color and freshness.

Conclusion:
This Zesty Italian Lemon Pecorino Chicken is a perfect balance of crispy, tender chicken and a creamy, tangy sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. The combination of lemon and Pecorino Romano brings a delightful burst of flavor to every bite, making this dish a standout at any meal. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress. So go ahead, enjoy this Italian-inspired masterpiece and savor the delicious blend of zesty and savory flavors.